Unforgettable football trip for young south Londoners
Our Football Development team laid on the trip of a lifetime to France for 59 aspiring football players in February 47 players from our Player Pathway course and 12 players from Premier League kicks made the short trip across the English Channel, taking up the opportunity to compete against top-level opposition, develop their skills and grow both on and off the pitch.
Over the course of the trip, participants played against French and Belgian academy teams, gaining valuable insight into different styles of play and the intensity required at higher levels of the game.
The matches against the academies proved game-changing for the team, as they understood differing football cultures and playing styles from their overseas competition. Throughout their trip, they learnt what it is like to play top-tier football, alongside understanding the demands of elite football. The young players specifically referenced the intensity and technical ability of the academy teams, which only inspired them to push themselves further.
Our Football Development trips aim to develop participants’ life skills as well as their football skills.
Off the pitch, the participants had the incredible opportunity to watch a USL Dunkirk first-team match at their stadium where they witnessed Dunkirk secure a commanding 3-0 victory over Claremont.
Team-bonding through sport and trips like these are crucial for developing young footballers. They learn about teamwork, understanding their own and teammates emotions, and habits they can take into their own life. This rang true for our 59 young footballers:
- 90% of participants were away from home and family for the first time, making this an important step in their personal growth.
- 100% made new friends, strengthening team bonds and expanding their social skills.
- 97% said they feel more confident as a result of the trip.
- 91% reported feeling more responsible, learning to manage themselves in new environments.
- For 7 players, this was their first time leaving the UK, while 6 participants needed to apply for their first ever passport to travel.
- The overall experience was rated 8.5 out of 10, reflecting the positive impact and enjoyment of the tour.
Trips like these are not only benefitting participants, parents are reaping the rewards too. One of our participants’ parents said: “This journey was Blake’s first ‘holiday’ away by himself, and to combine that with football was perfect. His recount of how everything was structured and handled was phenomenal. He enjoyed himself from the moment he left, and his highlight was breakfast on the ferry! He mentioned that all of the coaches were extremely nice and understanding, and to that, I am ever so grateful. This trip has definitely left an imprint on Blake, and he thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for providing the Palace for Life boys with this amazing trip—he hopes there are many more!”
After the thrills of a football-packed first few days, the coaches took the participants for a powerful, historical experience visiting Dunkirk Beach. Here, the players had a chance to learn about the historic significance of the site and it’s role in World War II. This was another moment for the participants to reflect, allowing them to appreciate the resilience and courage displayed during the evacuation. It was a great way to end the experience for the young players, adding an educational and meaningful dimension to the trip.
The France football tour was a resounding success, providing players with invaluable experiences both on and off the pitch. The opportunity to compete internationally, experience different cultures, and build friendships has undoubtedly contributed to their development. With overwhelmingly positive feedback, we look forward to planning similar experiences in the future!
For more information , head to our Football Development and Premier League Kicks sessions pages.
